Sandy Gems: Florida’s Hidden Beaches

Florida is the place to visit. With some amazing beaches that somehow fall under the radar of the tourists, and temperatures that rarely dip below 25°C, who could blame you for booking some flights to Florida and enjoying a little piece of the sunshine state all to yourself?

Caladesi Island State Park

Yes, Florida has its own white-sand islands and Caladesi Island State Park, a secret paradise island, is one of the best. Located on the Gulf Coast within walking distance of Clearwater Beach, this island offers pristine sands, wildlife and a three mile nature trail throughout the island interior. Take a boat or ferry from Honeymoon Island State Park and get set to enjoy one of the world’s most beautiful beach locations.

Playlinda Beach

If you’re looking to escape the crowds on an immense beach, Playalinda Beach, on Florida’s east coast, is the stuff of these dreams. Spanish for “beautiful beach,” Playalinda is located along the Canaveral National Seashore; at 24 miles this is the longest undeveloped stretch of beach on Florida’s east coast. The beach is renowned for being a surfer hangout but is so large that you can find a nice, secluded spot easily. Stay later, watch the sun go down behind the Atlantic Ocean and savor an unforgettable vacation experience.

North Beach

North Beach in Fort DeSoto Park easily makes it into the top 10 best American beaches lists and yet many holidaymakers overlook it. Located on the west coast near Tampa, North Beach features swathes of white sand, with swimming available in the warm waters. The beautiful park itself plays host to diverse wildlife, plant life and sea life. There are three miles of gorgeous beaches for you to enjoy, and camping is available if you’d prefer to avoid hotel charges.

Sebastian Inlet State Park

Florida’s Space Coast is home to one of the top saltwater fishing spots and Sebastian Inlet is also home to three miles of beautiful beaches. On this stretch of Florida’s east coast, you’ll see dolphins and manatees swimming — and maybe even leaping — in the turquoise, warm waters. The ocean front is the place to relax on the sand and marvel at the surfers as they catch the waves, or you can try your hand at scuba diving, canoeing and kayaking. Camping is available in the park for those who wish to wake up to the sight of the Atlantic Ocean. Nice!

Images by Dorothy Finley and JKDAtlanta, used under Creative Commons license.